Children:
Children are invited to join one of our three musical groups for their age level!
Jr. Choristers Children's Choir - for children in grades Kindergarten through 2nd grade. Rehearsals Mondays 5:45 - 6:15PM
Choristers Children's Choir - for children in grades 3 through 8. Rehearsals Saturdays from 3:00 - 4:00PM.
The Ringers! Children's Handbells - for children in grades 4 through 8 with an interest in handbells. Rehearsals Thursdays from 6:00 - 7:00PM.
Teens
Faith Song, High School Band - for youth in grades 8 through 12. Rehearsals Tuesdays from 7:30 - 8:30PM.
Adults
Adult Choir - Rehearsals on Wednesdays from 7:00 - 8:45PM.
Adult Handbells - Rehearsals on Thursdays from 7:00 - 8:00PM
Cantors - rehearsals with Music Director as needed.
Resurrection Choir for Funerals - rehearsals as needed, must be available weekday mornings.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Monday, February 27, 2012
The Rite of Election
The Lenten journey has begun throughout the church . . . for RCIA, it is a time of purification and enlightenment . . . a time marked with special rites. This past Sunday the catechumnes and candidates gathered with hundreds of other catechumens and candidates throughout the diocese at St. Paul's Church for the Rite of Election with Bishop Campbell.
As I spoke with some who had participated in the rite . . . there was a recurring phrase. "It was moving" for each person in a special and unique way, the way in which God is working within them. And it can be like that for us all as we enter anew into this journey. THANKS BE TO GOD!
Stewardship
I would like to think of how you can best help the Church in her work. For a great many of us we can do this through a particular ministry, a certain talent that God has given you. This can be something so obvious that you can do it without giving a great deal of thought. However, sometimes God asks us to do things that might require more thought than we would like.
We are called to more suffering than we would naturally like. It would be great if suffering didn't exist, but we all know about the Fall of Man from the Garden of Eden which is how sin entered the world. Jesus Christ's death and resurrection finished death as man's final end. However, it didn't finish suffering. We are called to suffer and sometimes that can come in our daily interaction with friends and co-workers. It doesn't make it any less uncomfortable, but Jesus did tell us that if we acknowledge Him here on earth, He will acknowledge us in heaven.
This Lent think of how you can help defend the Church from those who would cause her ill will. You will receive your reward in heaven and you will be thanked by countless others, who by your defense of the faith were able to understand Christ's truths while they were here on earth.
We are called to more suffering than we would naturally like. It would be great if suffering didn't exist, but we all know about the Fall of Man from the Garden of Eden which is how sin entered the world. Jesus Christ's death and resurrection finished death as man's final end. However, it didn't finish suffering. We are called to suffer and sometimes that can come in our daily interaction with friends and co-workers. It doesn't make it any less uncomfortable, but Jesus did tell us that if we acknowledge Him here on earth, He will acknowledge us in heaven.
This Lent think of how you can help defend the Church from those who would cause her ill will. You will receive your reward in heaven and you will be thanked by countless others, who by your defense of the faith were able to understand Christ's truths while they were here on earth.
Friday, February 24, 2012
What will you ADD for Lent this year?
This first week of Lent began with the Ash Wednesday celebrations.
It always encouraging to see so many people attend this liturgy since it is not a Holy Day of obligation. It speaks to the connection we feel for our need to be present to receive our ashes and to begin Lent with sincere intentions for renewal.
The ashes remind us we are on this earth for a short time "Remember you are dust, from dust you came to dust you shall return". We need to make each day count as in "Repent! Turn away from sin and follow the gospel".
In the scripture readings for this weekend Jesus spends 40 days in the desert to prepare for his mission. We are also invited to enter into these 40 days of prayer, fasting and alsmgiving to prepare for our life's mission.
The following prayer was written by Jackie Witty from one of the Tuesday Morning GIFT communities. It captures the essence of why we journey into the desert.
Restless Soul by Jackie Witty I prayed for "A" incessantly,
For lacking it was tough;
But when I got a lot of "A"
It still was not enough.
So I pursued a different need.
And staunchly prayed for "B",
But when the gift of "B" appeared,
I really wanted "C".
Oh, help me Lord, relieve my wants,
And show me how to pray!
The Lord replied, "My dearest one,
There is another way."
Instead of "A" or "B" or "C"
To make your longings cease,
Draw near as possible to me
And I will give you peace.
St. Joan of Arc has many opportunities for Lenten enrichment, begin by
Joining us for the Lenten Parish Mission with Tom Booth this weekend. First session is on Saturday 9:00-11:00 with a Morning of Reflection, discover some new opportunities for prayer and service. Please refer to the full schedule in the parish bulletin on line.
May this Lenten season, bring each of you His peace.
It always encouraging to see so many people attend this liturgy since it is not a Holy Day of obligation. It speaks to the connection we feel for our need to be present to receive our ashes and to begin Lent with sincere intentions for renewal.
The ashes remind us we are on this earth for a short time "Remember you are dust, from dust you came to dust you shall return". We need to make each day count as in "Repent! Turn away from sin and follow the gospel".
In the scripture readings for this weekend Jesus spends 40 days in the desert to prepare for his mission. We are also invited to enter into these 40 days of prayer, fasting and alsmgiving to prepare for our life's mission.
The following prayer was written by Jackie Witty from one of the Tuesday Morning GIFT communities. It captures the essence of why we journey into the desert.
Restless Soul by Jackie Witty I prayed for "A" incessantly,
For lacking it was tough;
But when I got a lot of "A"
It still was not enough.
So I pursued a different need.
And staunchly prayed for "B",
But when the gift of "B" appeared,
I really wanted "C".
Oh, help me Lord, relieve my wants,
And show me how to pray!
The Lord replied, "My dearest one,
There is another way."
Instead of "A" or "B" or "C"
To make your longings cease,
Draw near as possible to me
And I will give you peace.
St. Joan of Arc has many opportunities for Lenten enrichment, begin by
Joining us for the Lenten Parish Mission with Tom Booth this weekend. First session is on Saturday 9:00-11:00 with a Morning of Reflection, discover some new opportunities for prayer and service. Please refer to the full schedule in the parish bulletin on line.
May this Lenten season, bring each of you His peace.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Music During Lent
Today, Ash Wednesday, begins the season of Lent.
Music during Lent has a different flare from the rest of the year. You may hear more Gregorian chant than typical. We won't be ending Holy Mass with a Recessional Hymn, but will instead end in silence. There may be less instrumental music than what is typically heard. Songs may express our sorrow for our sins and the depth of our God's forgiveness more often than during the rest of the year.
Lent is a time for us to reflect on our lives and seek to bring ourselves closer to God - let the hymns that are sung during Mass lead us closer as we endeavor to live a righteous life.
On March 11th at 7:30PM we'll be holding a concert by the Hamilton College Choir from New York. Though this will not be a "Lenten" concert, you may be inspired by the songs used at this concert during the Lenten season. Please consider coming out and supporting your Parish Music Ministry by attending this event - it is free, but a free-will offering will be collected to support St. Joan of Arc Music.
On March 26th at 7:00PM there will be another concert - during which the Book of Jonah will be read in its entirety. With short instrumental breaks, one will be able to reflect on the Word of God and on the message of this Book of the Bible which can certainly be a part of one's Lenten journey. Again, the concert is free but a free-will offering will be taken up.
On Fridays throughout Lent we'll be praying the Stations of the Cross on Friday Evenings at 7:30PM. This wonderful devotion includes singing parts of the Stabat Mater - the traditional Sequence for the Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows. Come and join in song as we reflect on Mary, watching her Son and our Lord crucified. Each evening will end with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament during which the traditional hymn O Salutaris and the traditional chant Tantum Ergo are sung. There is no better way to enter into this holy season than by praying the Stations of the Cross and then being able to receive Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament!
We hope to see you at these events - be sure to check out the bulletin for further information on opportunities for spiritual growth during Lent.
Music during Lent has a different flare from the rest of the year. You may hear more Gregorian chant than typical. We won't be ending Holy Mass with a Recessional Hymn, but will instead end in silence. There may be less instrumental music than what is typically heard. Songs may express our sorrow for our sins and the depth of our God's forgiveness more often than during the rest of the year.
Lent is a time for us to reflect on our lives and seek to bring ourselves closer to God - let the hymns that are sung during Mass lead us closer as we endeavor to live a righteous life.
On March 11th at 7:30PM we'll be holding a concert by the Hamilton College Choir from New York. Though this will not be a "Lenten" concert, you may be inspired by the songs used at this concert during the Lenten season. Please consider coming out and supporting your Parish Music Ministry by attending this event - it is free, but a free-will offering will be collected to support St. Joan of Arc Music.
On March 26th at 7:00PM there will be another concert - during which the Book of Jonah will be read in its entirety. With short instrumental breaks, one will be able to reflect on the Word of God and on the message of this Book of the Bible which can certainly be a part of one's Lenten journey. Again, the concert is free but a free-will offering will be taken up.
On Fridays throughout Lent we'll be praying the Stations of the Cross on Friday Evenings at 7:30PM. This wonderful devotion includes singing parts of the Stabat Mater - the traditional Sequence for the Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows. Come and join in song as we reflect on Mary, watching her Son and our Lord crucified. Each evening will end with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament during which the traditional hymn O Salutaris and the traditional chant Tantum Ergo are sung. There is no better way to enter into this holy season than by praying the Stations of the Cross and then being able to receive Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament!
We hope to see you at these events - be sure to check out the bulletin for further information on opportunities for spiritual growth during Lent.
Monday, February 20, 2012
Lent & Stewardship
Lent and Stewardship go hand in hand. Some might wonder how could this be; after all isn't Lent a time for reflection and withdraw, and isn't Stewardship about giving? In our Lenten period of reflection we should realize our proper role in the faith. Often we allow ego, earthly desires and societal whims to rule our lives. In Stewardship we can reverse these patterns.
Stewardship can be done through many venues, whether it be financial giving, or giving of our time and or our talent. In doing so we can connect with those we need to help. In the latter years of her life Mother Teresa heard a knock at her door; it was an American businessman who happened to be in Calcutta for business. He wanted to give her money, which he did but she told him to only give her half of what he had wanted and go home and give the other half through working with his time and talent in charitable causes close to home. Stewardship comprises many possibilities; this Lent in prayer and reflection we can figure out those possibilities to better ourselves and those around us.
Stewardship can be done through many venues, whether it be financial giving, or giving of our time and or our talent. In doing so we can connect with those we need to help. In the latter years of her life Mother Teresa heard a knock at her door; it was an American businessman who happened to be in Calcutta for business. He wanted to give her money, which he did but she told him to only give her half of what he had wanted and go home and give the other half through working with his time and talent in charitable causes close to home. Stewardship comprises many possibilities; this Lent in prayer and reflection we can figure out those possibilities to better ourselves and those around us.
Friday, February 17, 2012
Growing In Faith Together (GIFT) 'Six Degrees of Separation'
'Six degrees of separation refers to the idea that everyone is on average approximately six steps away, by way of introduction, from any other person on Earth, so that a chain of, "a friend of a friend" statements can be made, on average, to connect any two people in six steps or fewer.'
Belonging to a small faith sharing community such as GIFT, can accomplish this connection with interesting results. When we share our life experiences, it becomes evident that this theory has some merit.
For example:
Patti, one of our GIFT Pastoral Faciliators has a friend whose relative works for Oprah Winfry, using this theory of six degrees of separation, provides a very specific connection. It makes our large world much more personal.
This week's Gospel reading lends itself to this theory as well. We have four men who knew about Jesus. They found out that he would be in their vacinity and reached out to him by bring the paralytic to hear Jesus. Their faith and determination to get closer resulted in Jesus acknowledging them and healing the paralytic.
If it were possible, would you like to meet Pope John Paul II or Mother Teresa? Using this theory of six degrees of separation and by attending the Parish Mission with Tom Booth this objective could be accomplished. Tom has inspirational stories to share of his ministry. He has had the opportunity to meet and perform for John Paul II and Mother Teresa. His impressive resume includes music awards and collaborating with many nationally known Christian musicians.
Mission Begins
Saturday, February 25, 9:00-11:00 am Workshop, Morning of Reflection & Brunch (please RSVP in narthex or call 614-761-0905)
Evening SessionsFebruary 26, 27, 7:00-8:30 pm
February 28 Closing Mass 6:15 pm w/Evening session 7:00-8:30 pm
Morning Sessions
February 27 & 28 Mass 8:30 am followed by presentation & brunch
Begin this Lenten season with a direct connection to God's holy people of our time. Invite the Holy Spirit to guide you to expand that experience. Consider participating in the small faith sharing communities of GIFT during Lent to discover God's unique plan for your life.
For more information, please contact Romy Riebe 614-885-9450 or Pete Shears 614-888-1562.
Belonging to a small faith sharing community such as GIFT, can accomplish this connection with interesting results. When we share our life experiences, it becomes evident that this theory has some merit.
For example:
Patti, one of our GIFT Pastoral Faciliators has a friend whose relative works for Oprah Winfry, using this theory of six degrees of separation, provides a very specific connection. It makes our large world much more personal.
This week's Gospel reading lends itself to this theory as well. We have four men who knew about Jesus. They found out that he would be in their vacinity and reached out to him by bring the paralytic to hear Jesus. Their faith and determination to get closer resulted in Jesus acknowledging them and healing the paralytic.
If it were possible, would you like to meet Pope John Paul II or Mother Teresa? Using this theory of six degrees of separation and by attending the Parish Mission with Tom Booth this objective could be accomplished. Tom has inspirational stories to share of his ministry. He has had the opportunity to meet and perform for John Paul II and Mother Teresa. His impressive resume includes music awards and collaborating with many nationally known Christian musicians.
Mission Begins
Saturday, February 25, 9:00-11:00 am Workshop, Morning of Reflection & Brunch (please RSVP in narthex or call 614-761-0905)
Evening SessionsFebruary 26, 27, 7:00-8:30 pm
February 28 Closing Mass 6:15 pm w/Evening session 7:00-8:30 pm
Morning Sessions
February 27 & 28 Mass 8:30 am followed by presentation & brunch
Begin this Lenten season with a direct connection to God's holy people of our time. Invite the Holy Spirit to guide you to expand that experience. Consider participating in the small faith sharing communities of GIFT during Lent to discover God's unique plan for your life.
For more information, please contact Romy Riebe 614-885-9450 or Pete Shears 614-888-1562.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
The Pipe Organ and Catholic Worship
The official instrument of the Roman Catholic Church is, of course, the pipe organ. Vatican II’s liturgy document Sacrosanctum Concilium reminds us of the primacy of this instrument by saying “it is the traditional musical instrument which adds a wonderful splendor to the Church's ceremonies and powerfully lifts up man's mind to God and to higher things.”
The organ in our parish is regrettably not a pipe organ, but rather an electric organ that is meant to emulate the sound of a pipe organ. Pipe organs are expensive instruments that can cost anywhere from $300,000
to $2,000,000 and above for a newly-built instrument. In 2012, with many parishes closing, lots of old pipe organs are being purchased from closed Parishes, being transported and refurbished and then rebuilt in other churches for far less money. Sometimes used pipe organs that would cost over a million dollars new can be purchased for under $50,000 (though rebuilding can be costly). It can be difficult to find a used organ that is available and will match acoustically, stylistically and spatially into an existing Church.If you'd like to discuss the possibility of seeing a pipe organ in St. Joan of Arc in the future, feel free to contact me. We have the space - we just need enthusiasm, fund-raising and people willing to help.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
St. Valentine's Day Dance/YM Fundraiser a Huge Success
Scroll to bottom to see video of the dance and a brief summary!
We had a Great time! Thanks to all teens, parents, parishioners, and volunteers who made this such a fantastic success! We raised some good funding too! Click Here & Here to see some dancing patrons of the arts and YM supporters! Thanks to Steven's Catering & The Rick Brunetto Big Band for wonderful food and entertainment! I hesitate to post this video CLICK HERE because it looks like only the teens were dancing but this was just during a lull in adult dancing. If you look at the still shots above you can see the crowded dance floor with all the parents and Youth Ministry supporters! Thanks again for all your ticket purchases!
God bless you all!
Michael A. Barone ~ Director of Youth Ministry SJOA Catholic Church
Monday, February 13, 2012
Erin Cordle comes to RCIA
Erin Cordle came to RCIA to enter into a discussion with the group about the social teaching of the Catholic Church. It was an evening to remember as she engaged the group. Working with their input she opened up awareness in simple and concrete terms.
Simple concepts included:
"working with the poor and marginalized"
"respecting their dignity. . . ask them what they need . . . they know"
Concrete terms:
"the two feet of Social Concerns . . . Charity & Justice" We live our faith,
we stand with others in faith and we walk with them . . . with our feet.
Then we gathered around 4 tables and the manila envelopes were given, one to each table. The task seemed simple . . . open the envelopes and using only what is inside follow the directions. It seemed like craft time. (Make a puppet, make a paper chain link, make a cube, make a paper airplane . . .)
Not quite so . . . one table had not only everything they needed to complete the tasks, but an abundance of everything. Another table had nothing they needed to complete the tasks and the two remaining tables had some or most of what they needed.
Life in a microcosm . . . an introduction to Social Justice . . . becoming real in our response to the situation in front of us.
Basic Catholicism Classes Helps Us To Better Understand Our Faith
All successful groups need their members to know what their organization believes, the Catholic Church is no different. Imagine your favorite sports team that didn't know their plays, a band that didn't know the words to their own music, or a theater production in which the cast didn't know their lines. Not a pretty picture. The ongoing Basic Catholicism classes which continue this week is a way for all of us to better understand our faith. This isn't done so that we can all feel intelllectually superior, but rather that we know what we believe so that we can fulfill our Christ appointed mission.
Come join us Monday or Wednesday late afternoon or evening (4:30 or 6:15.) You only have to attend one class, we offer them at different times to accomodate your schedule. We will have one final session in April. We look forward to seeing you. God Bless & take care!
Come join us Monday or Wednesday late afternoon or evening (4:30 or 6:15.) You only have to attend one class, we offer them at different times to accomodate your schedule. We will have one final session in April. We look forward to seeing you. God Bless & take care!
Friday, February 10, 2012
GIFT - When is the next miracle?
Would you like to witness the miracle of healing?
In our Sunday readings we find Jesus moving from area to area, being present to all, performing amazing miracles of healing. What would that have felt like to witness such marvelous deeds?
Having been on staff for over 15 years, it has been my privilege to witness some amazing moments of physical and spiritual healing. This is especially evident when our GIFT, small faith sharing communities gather.
It is healing to be able to share our concerns with others who care. It is a joy for all who pray when a prayer is answered.
On a personal note, I am reminded of an instance about 3 years ago. My 88 year old mother was rushed to the hospital in Cleveland, her situation was grave. There was just a short time to get things together before we left for Cleveland, but on my way out the door, I did contact my GIFT communities and asked for their prayers.
Once in Cleveland, the situation looked very grim for my mother. After 4 hours of surgery and as many hours of prayer, we were given the good news that she survived the surgery. One day after surgery my sister coaxed Mom into scratching an instant lottery ticket. When this happened we knew Mom would be fine. On the third day the bandage was removed from the nine inch incision. We were amazed that the wound was bearly visible,except for the staples.
We are were very grateful for all the prayers, dedication of the medical team and most of all God's gracious blessing in allowing her to be with us to this very day.
Following Jesus example of being present especially to those who are isolated or alone can produce miraculous transformations. Each of us can be that channel for God's love which can perform many mircales. This Valentine's Day give the gift of love, and witness the miracle of healing.
God Bless each of you with healing!
Romy
In our Sunday readings we find Jesus moving from area to area, being present to all, performing amazing miracles of healing. What would that have felt like to witness such marvelous deeds?
Having been on staff for over 15 years, it has been my privilege to witness some amazing moments of physical and spiritual healing. This is especially evident when our GIFT, small faith sharing communities gather.
It is healing to be able to share our concerns with others who care. It is a joy for all who pray when a prayer is answered.
On a personal note, I am reminded of an instance about 3 years ago. My 88 year old mother was rushed to the hospital in Cleveland, her situation was grave. There was just a short time to get things together before we left for Cleveland, but on my way out the door, I did contact my GIFT communities and asked for their prayers.
Once in Cleveland, the situation looked very grim for my mother. After 4 hours of surgery and as many hours of prayer, we were given the good news that she survived the surgery. One day after surgery my sister coaxed Mom into scratching an instant lottery ticket. When this happened we knew Mom would be fine. On the third day the bandage was removed from the nine inch incision. We were amazed that the wound was bearly visible,except for the staples.
We are were very grateful for all the prayers, dedication of the medical team and most of all God's gracious blessing in allowing her to be with us to this very day.
Following Jesus example of being present especially to those who are isolated or alone can produce miraculous transformations. Each of us can be that channel for God's love which can perform many mircales. This Valentine's Day give the gift of love, and witness the miracle of healing.
God Bless each of you with healing!
Romy
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
One Year Ago Today...
One year ago today I was given a key, a tour of the building, and a role as leader of the music program at St. Joan of Arc. It has been a great pleasuring serving this church and I will continue to give my best in running this wonderful program. Since arriving, I am very proud of our efforts in establishing a Children's Handbell Choir, expanding the Parish Choir, Teen Band, Cantor Program and Children's Choirs, establishing a Christian Concert Series, having a weekly page in the parish bulletin to keep folks engaged in and informed about our music program, and hopefully leading members of our music program closer to Christ and His Church. I would like to thank our Pastor, Father Raymond Larussa, for his help with our program, as well as my colleagues Paula Vasey and Val Galaktionov who are so very talented and valued here at St. Joan of Arc.
In the next several months, great musical events will happen at St. Joan of Arc.
Tom Booth (a liturgical musician and composer) will present our Parish Mission.
Pergolesi's Stabat Mater will be performed in concert on March 11th.
We will read the Book of Jonah at an organ concert on March 25th.
Holy Week, with its unique liturgies and music, will take place during the first week of April.
Are you looking to meet new friends in the parish?
Do you love music and want to share your gifts with the world?
Join us! Ring a bell, sing with a choir, raise your voice as a cantor or play an instrument!
No matter what your talent - we'll find a place for you.
God bless,
Matthew J. Meloche
In the next several months, great musical events will happen at St. Joan of Arc.
Tom Booth (a liturgical musician and composer) will present our Parish Mission.
Pergolesi's Stabat Mater will be performed in concert on March 11th.
We will read the Book of Jonah at an organ concert on March 25th.
Holy Week, with its unique liturgies and music, will take place during the first week of April.
Are you looking to meet new friends in the parish?
Do you love music and want to share your gifts with the world?
Join us! Ring a bell, sing with a choir, raise your voice as a cantor or play an instrument!
No matter what your talent - we'll find a place for you.
God bless,
Matthew J. Meloche
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Meet our RCIA Candidates
Meet our RCIA Candidates
Candidate is a term used in RCIA to refer to those individuals who were baptized in the trinitarian formula in other Christian faiths. The Catholic Church recognizes their baptism and
they then receive the sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist at the Easter Vigil.
(Not pictured: Nate Gold & Blake Renner)
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| Autumn Mess |
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| Robbin Spegal with sponsor Phil Northrup |
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| Lindsey Wolf |
RCIA has a third category which includes individuals who were baptized Catholic but not catechized in the faith. These individuals also receive the remaining saraments of initiation (Confirmation & Eucharist) at the Easter Vigil.
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| Paudy Lopez |
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| The group with sponsors Please keep them in your prayers! |
Monday, February 6, 2012
Next Round of Basic Catholicism Classes Coming Soon
Our Basic Catholicism classes are off and running. The next sessions are scheduled for 2 pm and 3:45 pm Sunday February 12; 4:30 pm and 6:15 pm Monday February 13; and finally 4:30 pm and 6:15 Wednesday February 15th. Again you only have to attend one as they are all the same class just offered at different times to accomodate your schedule.
We will cover such topics as the Church in the Dark Ages, Church Art & Architecture, as well as the rise of Catholic Church institutions like Catholic hospitals and Catholic universities. In addition we will cover the Protestant Reformation as well as the influence of the American and French Revolutions. The final class in April will cover the period from 1800 to the current day.
As you can see we move at a fast pace. We had some great questions in the first session which should set a good tone for our next series of classes. We had people of all ages attend our first group and we look forward to the same for next session of classes. See you there!
We will cover such topics as the Church in the Dark Ages, Church Art & Architecture, as well as the rise of Catholic Church institutions like Catholic hospitals and Catholic universities. In addition we will cover the Protestant Reformation as well as the influence of the American and French Revolutions. The final class in April will cover the period from 1800 to the current day.
As you can see we move at a fast pace. We had some great questions in the first session which should set a good tone for our next series of classes. We had people of all ages attend our first group and we look forward to the same for next session of classes. See you there!
Friday, February 3, 2012
GIFT (Growing In Faith Together) Love & Forgiveness Beyond Description
B
This past Wednesday, our small community of nine people gathered to reflect on the upcoming Sunday readings; Matt 8:17, Job 7:1-4, 6-7, 1 Cor 9:16,22-23.
Some of the communities use the resource; Living Liturgy, which in part comments on the readings. To summarize this week's commentary; " . . .as the gospel illustrates, in times of trouble we need the personal touch and presence of another."
During our discussion one of our memebers shared a powerful story of "transformation of human hopelessness through a personal encounter with Jesus. . . As his disciples, this is our work as well."
To maintain the confidentiality of the small group sharing, I will only retell the story which was publically shared.
Our GIFT member inadvertently found herself at an Amish retreat. The presenter at the retreat shared that she had survived many trials including breast cancer, however as she stated; "nothing prepared her for what was to come."
She lives in Amish country. One day five years ago, she was informed that something unthinkable had occurred. Her son who delivered milk to a school had gone on a shooting rampage and killed 5 Amish children and then killed himself.
During this horrible time some very amazing, lifegiving things happened; the Amish community (including those whose children were murdered) came to support her and her family in their grief. They stood with her at her son's grave and offered unconditional forgiveness and love.
That story has dominated my thoughts. It reminds me of Jesus' invitation to be there for others in time of trouble. It challenges me to examine my ability to forgive. Most importantly it offers hope beyond description.
This past Wednesday, our small community of nine people gathered to reflect on the upcoming Sunday readings; Matt 8:17, Job 7:1-4, 6-7, 1 Cor 9:16,22-23.
Some of the communities use the resource; Living Liturgy, which in part comments on the readings. To summarize this week's commentary; " . . .as the gospel illustrates, in times of trouble we need the personal touch and presence of another."
During our discussion one of our memebers shared a powerful story of "transformation of human hopelessness through a personal encounter with Jesus. . . As his disciples, this is our work as well."
To maintain the confidentiality of the small group sharing, I will only retell the story which was publically shared.
Our GIFT member inadvertently found herself at an Amish retreat. The presenter at the retreat shared that she had survived many trials including breast cancer, however as she stated; "nothing prepared her for what was to come."
She lives in Amish country. One day five years ago, she was informed that something unthinkable had occurred. Her son who delivered milk to a school had gone on a shooting rampage and killed 5 Amish children and then killed himself.
During this horrible time some very amazing, lifegiving things happened; the Amish community (including those whose children were murdered) came to support her and her family in their grief. They stood with her at her son's grave and offered unconditional forgiveness and love.
That story has dominated my thoughts. It reminds me of Jesus' invitation to be there for others in time of trouble. It challenges me to examine my ability to forgive. Most importantly it offers hope beyond description.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
This Sunday at St. Joan of Arc
This Sunday at St. Joan of Arc in Powell, Ohio, we will be having a variety of musical groups leading music at our various Masses.
At the 5:00PM Vigil Mass we will debut our new Children's Handbell Team, The Ringers! The team is made up of children in grades 4 - 8 who have been working hard to learn this new skill. Formed just before Christmas, this is the first time The Ringers! will play at Holy Mass. Keep them in your prayers as they continue to develop their musical talents and seek to lead our congregation to prayer through instrumental music.
The 7:30 Mass will be lead by a cantor.
The 9:00 Mass will be our Choral Mass at which our choir will continue to introduce the congregation to the Mass in Honor of St. Benedict, which is the official Mass Ordinary of the Diocese of Columbus. See the Music Ministry News in this Sunday's bulletin for more information about this Ordinary.
The 10:45 and 12:30 Masses will be lead by cantors.
At 5:30PM we will be lead in song by Faith Song, St. Joan of Arc's high school band. This group, made up of youth in grades 8 - 12, specialize in contemporary Catholic music. They are in need of new members and typically rehearse on Tuesdays - if you're in eighth grade or high school and would like to join - come talk to the music director (or another member of Faith Song) after Holy Mass.
We hope you join us for Mass this Sunday at St. Joan of Arc Parish!
At the 5:00PM Vigil Mass we will debut our new Children's Handbell Team, The Ringers! The team is made up of children in grades 4 - 8 who have been working hard to learn this new skill. Formed just before Christmas, this is the first time The Ringers! will play at Holy Mass. Keep them in your prayers as they continue to develop their musical talents and seek to lead our congregation to prayer through instrumental music.
The 7:30 Mass will be lead by a cantor.
The 9:00 Mass will be our Choral Mass at which our choir will continue to introduce the congregation to the Mass in Honor of St. Benedict, which is the official Mass Ordinary of the Diocese of Columbus. See the Music Ministry News in this Sunday's bulletin for more information about this Ordinary.
The 10:45 and 12:30 Masses will be lead by cantors.
At 5:30PM we will be lead in song by Faith Song, St. Joan of Arc's high school band. This group, made up of youth in grades 8 - 12, specialize in contemporary Catholic music. They are in need of new members and typically rehearse on Tuesdays - if you're in eighth grade or high school and would like to join - come talk to the music director (or another member of Faith Song) after Holy Mass.
We hope you join us for Mass this Sunday at St. Joan of Arc Parish!
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